Probate applications now have shortest wait time in nearly a year, data reveals
The waiting time for probate applications has significantly decreased in the number of weeks from submission to grant issue for all probate applications – decreasing from 13.7 to 11.3 weeks, according to HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS). This marks the shortest waiting time since March of last year, which stood at 10.8 weeks. For […]
Isle of Man edges closer to legalising assisted dying after crucial parliamentary votes
The Isle of Man is moving toward potentially becoming the first part of the British Isles to legalise assisted dying, following pivotal parliamentary votes. Members of the Tynwald, the island’s parliament, are debating whether lethal drugs should be self-administered or administered by doctors to eligible individuals. Dr. Alex Allinson, both a politician and doctor, introduced […]
Three in five UK homeowners look to property wealth to ‘prop up retirement dream’
More than three in five (61%) UK homeowners – equivalent to 18.7 million people – are interested in releasing money from their home in later life to meet a range of financial needs, according to new findings from the Equity Release Council (the Council). This figure has risen since 2021, when 57% of people said […]
High court resolves ambiguous charity bequests in woman’s will
The England and Wales High Court (EWHC) recently ruled on a case involving the will of Marjorie Thompson, who left the residue of her estate equally to fifteen charities, several of which were incorrectly or ambiguously named. Thompson, who passed away on April 9th, 2020, had her will drafted by a now-retired solicitor. The firm […]
1 week until early bird deadline – #BWAPAwards2024
Early bird entry for the upcoming British Wills and Probate Awards, sponsored by CTT Group, is coming up 1 week from today on 24th May 2024. The cost of entering the awards is £129 +VAT (£169 +VAT from 25th May 2024) which provides the opportunity to enter up to 3x categories. You don’t need to […]
Children of tyre tycoon ‘squabble’ over £12.3million inheritance
The family of a millionaire tyre tycoon is locked in a £12.3million inheritance battle following his death in 2021. Yorkshire horse breeder Reg Bond died at the age of 77, leaving his legacy to his four children. The High Court heard earlier this month how the family would ‘squabble over an egg and spoon’ reports […]
Justice Committee’s Evidence Session into the Probate Service
Mark Walley, CEO of STEP, gave evidence at the House of Common’s Justice Committee’s evidence session on the performance of the probate service on 30 April. The committee of MPs was established as a follow up to the Justice Committee’s written inquiry into the probate service and its poor performance in November 2023. The significant volume of […]
